Safety Advice for Coping with a Punctured Tyre When Driving
Driving the speed limit often means driving at a high rate, which can be dangerous if your tyre develops a rupture. Even the most seasoned motorists will feel fear as they struggle to control the car.
Depending on the severity of the puncture you may still have limited control over the vehicle, which will allow you to stop the car safely and in a position where it does not cause a hazard to other road users.
As soon as you suspect that one of the tyres has developed a puncture you need to fight the natural initial instinct to brake sharply and pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible. Instead stay calm, take a firm grip on the steering wheel and avoid using any harsh steering or braking inputs and allow your speed to gently decrease naturally.
It is possible to enter into a spin if you try to over steer or brake the car too quickly. By entering a spin you will lose control because of the forces on the vehicle, and the lack of grip in the wheel. The reduction in speed can help increase your control over the vehicle to stop it without incident.
Once the car has been stopped out of the way of other drivers there are some steps to take. You will need to turn your hazard lights on. You will also need to assess the risk to you regarding the changing of the tyre. If you can exit the vehicle and not be in danger of oncoming cars you may elect to change the tyre. A car too close to the road could result in a severe incident, including the loss of your life. When the situation is too risky it is best to call road side services. They can assist you in reaching a better place to change the tyre.
In a situation where you are well off the road or in a safer area you can change the tyre. You should have all persons in the vehicle stand in a safe location. You will need to put the emergency brake on. Consider leaving a light on or using a flash light if the day has grown darker. Do not forget to wear your emergency coat to signify you are on the road to those who happen by.
Always ensure you use the correct jacking points when raising your vehicle up, these are normally pictured in the owners manual, and make sure the vehicle is secure on the jack before attempting to remove the wheel.
As you finish ensure that you tighten the lugnuts properly. To tighten them you should use opposite pairs by increasing pressure on one then the one opposite. Also make sure the wheel is secured against the axel before you drive again.
If you are stranded at the side of the road because of a punctured tyre, it is important that your Car Light Bulbs are functioning correctly so other drivers can see you. In particular it is important that the Indicator Bulbs, which are used for your hazard lights work at the front, side and rear of your car.
Tags: Car Safety Tips, driving tips, auto